Daniel (Sailing Nauti Dream)

What are your thoughts about anchoring in less than ideal locations while expensive mooring fields in the safest and most comfortable areas of the harbor sit empty? On one hand, I've really enjoyed tying to a mooring ball where the holding and depth are questionable for anchoring, when a harbor is crowded, and the costs are reasonable. On the other hand, I really struggle with what I'm seeing as anchorages being overtaken by mooring fields, with fees which rival many land-based resorts. What used to be really safe, calm, and accessible locations are now filled with mooring balls. Now, I can understand mooring balls actually allow for more boats to get into a harbor, I get that. What I struggle with is the price which is quickly becoming normal for picking up a mooring ball and then banning anchoring. What I've experienced are the anchorages which remain are generally the worst places to be within a harbor. The places with the most swell or exposed to the wind. As a sailor, I can deal with these conditions. What are your thoughts when you anchor out while a mooring field sits with empty moorings?